Associate coach Mike Sullivan has an offer to stay with the team, but was given permission by Lawton to look for another NHL assistant or head coaching position. One potential destination for Sullivan could be joining the staff of New York Rangers coach John Tortorella.

"He wants to weigh all his options," Lawton said. "It wouldn't shock me if we had to move in another direction."

Lawton, after a postseason review of the organization, decided not to bring in other candidates for Tocchet's position.

"Under a difficult situation, he did a great job," Lawton said.

The current Lightning roster includes key performers Martin St. Louis and Vincent Lecavalier from the 2004 Stanley Cup championship team. Lecavalier has been mentioned in trade speculation for several months.